al-Iman - Ibn Mandah
- Author died
- 395 AH
- Editions
- Mu’assasat al-Risālah
Kitab al-Iman (The Book of Faith) is a classical work on Islamic theology and hadith compiled by the traditionist Ibn Mandah (d. 395 AH / 1005 CE) . The book documents prophetic traditions and narrations from the early generations of Muslims regarding the definition, branches, and theological rulings concerning faith (iman) and submission (islam) .
Method and Scope
In Kitab al-Iman, Ibn Mandah adopted the traditional methodology of early hadith scholars (ashab al-hadith), relying on textual transmission with chains of narration (asānīd) arranged systematically under descriptive topical chapter headings . The work opens with foundational texts concerning the obligations of faith, including the Hadith of Gabriel and reports defining faith as an internal and external reality comprising belief, speech, and deeds .
The work is noted for its well-ordered categorization and thematic classification of doctrinal issues under comprehensive headings, collecting transmitted evidences rather than engaging primarily in abstract dialectical argumentation .
Modern Editions
The work was edited and verified by ‘Ali ibn Muhammad Nasir al-Faqihi and published in three volumes by Mu’assasat al-Risalah in Beirut, as well as published by the Academic Council of the Islamic University of Madinah .
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